About Us
Who do you help?
Penguin Mortgages works exclusively with NHS staff and other frontline workers, including nurses, midwives, healthcare assistants, paramedics, police officers, firefighters and armed forces personnel.
We focus on this group because we understand things like Agenda for Change banding, enhancements, bank shifts and ESR payslips, which many mainstream brokers simply aren't familiar with.
Are you a mortgage lender?
No. We're mortgage brokers, which means we don't lend money ourselves. Instead, we look across a range of lenders to find an option that may suit your circumstances, then guide you through the application from start to finish.
Are you regulated?
Yes. Penguin Mortgages is a trading style of Mortgage Hub Group Limited, which is an appointed representative of Mortgage Advice Bureau Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
NHS Income & Eligibility
Will lenders count my bank shifts, overtime and enhancements?
Many lenders will consider additional NHS income such as enhancements, overtime, bank shifts and allowances, though how much they'll use and how far back they look does vary from lender to lender.
Part of what we do is match you with lenders whose criteria tend to take a more flexible view of NHS pay structures, so this extra income isn't simply overlooked.
I'm still in my probation period, can I get a mortgage?
Often, yes. A number of lenders are comfortable proceeding while you're in a probation period, particularly for permanent NHS contracts. The right option for you will depend on your specific role, contract type and how long you've been in post.
I'm on a bank contract or work through an agency, does that rule me out?
Not necessarily. Some lenders will consider bank or agency income, especially where there's a track record of fairly regular hours over a reasonable period. We'll talk through your income history and find lenders whose criteria fit how you're paid.
I have a poor credit history, missed payments or a default. Can you still help?
Possibly. We work with a range of lenders, including some who specialise in applicants with a less than perfect credit history. Whether this is achievable, and on what terms, depends on your full circumstances, so it's best to talk it through with us rather than assume the worst.
I'm a first time buyer with a small deposit, are there schemes that could help?
There are schemes aimed at helping key workers and first time buyers get onto the property ladder with a smaller deposit, including options for new build properties. Whether you'd qualify depends on the lender and scheme criteria, so this is something we can look into together based on your situation.
The Process
How much could I borrow?
This depends on your income (including any NHS enhancements or overtime), your outgoings, your credit history and the criteria of the lender we approach. Once we've gone through your full circumstances together, we can give you a clearer picture of what may be achievable.
What documents will I need?
Typically you'll need recent payslips, bank statements, proof of ID and address, and details of any other income or financial commitments. For NHS staff, this often includes ESR payslips, which we're very familiar with reading. We'll send you a clear checklist of exactly what's needed for your situation before we get started.
How long does the whole process take?
Timeframes vary depending on the lender, the type of property and how quickly documents and information come back from everyone involved. We'll keep you updated at each stage so you always know what's happening and what's needed next.
I already have a mortgage. Can you help me remortgage?
Yes. We regularly help NHS and frontline workers review their current deal as it comes to an end, and look at whether a different rate or lender could be a better fit for their circumstances now.
Getting Started
Do you only deal with people based near Wickford or in Essex?
We're based in Wickford, Essex, but our advice is provided remotely by phone, video call and WhatsApp, so we're able to support NHS and frontline workers wherever they're based.
How do I get started?
Book a free, no obligation chat with us. We'll have a relaxed conversation about your circumstances, what you're hoping to do, and talk you through your options. There's no pressure and no commitment, it's simply a chance to find out where you stand.
I'm not sure if I'm ready to apply yet, can I still get in touch?
Of course. A lot of the people we speak to are still exploring their options, working out how much they might be able to borrow, or simply want to understand the process before they're ready to move. We're happy to help at whatever stage you're at.
